Freshman Housing at Pomona College: A Detailed Guide

Pomona College is known for its supportive and inclusive environment, especially for freshmen. This guide provides an in-depth look at the living arrangements available for first-year students, including residence halls, room types, community support, dining options, and social events. We'll also explore the benefits and structure of freshman housing at Pomona, as well as the unique features of south campus.

Residence Halls and Room Types

At Pomona College, freshmen typically reside in one of several residence halls, including Clark Harwood and Smith. Each hall offers a unique atmosphere and community, promoting a sense of belonging and support for new students. Freshman rooms are generally double occupancy, with some halls offering single rooms. These rooms are equipped with basic amenities such as beds, desks, chairs, and storage, ensuring comfort and convenience during their first year.

Community and Support

Each residence hall is staffed with Resident Assistants (RAs) who facilitate community-building and provide support to the students. RAs organize social events, study groups, and peer mentoring sessions, fostering a vibrant and engaging community. Additionally, Pomona offers Living-Learning Communities, themed living spaces that focus on specific interests or academic disciplines, allowing students to engage more deeply with their peers.

Dining Options

Freshmen have access to a variety of dining facilities near their residence halls, with meal plans that accommodate diverse dietary needs. These dining areas offer a range of meal options, making it easy for students to find something that suits their preferences and dietary requirements.

South Campus: A Closer Look

While Pomona College's south campus is located further from the central campus, it offers several benefits. South campus is only a 15-minute walk to Harvey Mudd College, making it accessible while still providing the advantage of proximity to academic buildings, the village, and two dining halls. It's a cozy and convenient location for freshmen.

Single and Double Rooms

Only 30% of incoming freshmen receive single rooms, while the remaining 70% are assigned to double rooms. Room sizes range from 120 sq ft to 200 sq ft, with a few buildings, such as Mudd, Blaisdell, and Gibson, featuring air conditioning. Even without air conditioning in the dorms, the lounges are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the summer months. Students with health conditions, such as asthma, can request air conditioning in their rooms.

The Sponsor Group: A Unique Structure

The sponsor group system is a key part of freshman housing at Pomona College. A sponsor group consists of a hall of first-year students guided by 2-3 second-year students. These sponsors help with everything from finding academic buildings to choosing classes, majors, and addressing personal issues, making them like cool parents to the freshmen. Students often refer to each other as "spibs," short for "spiblings," a playful nod to their close relationship. The sponsors are not Resident Advisors (RAs) but serve as trusted guides, fostering a comfortable and supportive relationship.

Overall, Pomona College's freshman housing is designed to make the transition to college life as smooth and enjoyable as possible, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports academic success and personal growth.

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